Gate of Dawn

The only remaining city gate from the former city wall that surrounded Vilnius, the Gates of Dawn is both historically relevant for Lithuania and important to Christianity. The small chapel inside the Gates holds an icon of the Virgin Mary without baby Jesus. For those who don’t have time to enter the chapel, you can see the icon, which is shining gold, from the street.

15 minutes

Hill of Three Crosses

The Hill of Three Crosses is another two fold destination, this time of both historic and national importance. The three crosses on this hill in the city center are thought to have been erected in the 17th century by Franciscan monks, to pay tribute to fellow monks that were murdered. The original crosses where wooden but started to rot and were replaced with stone ones. Those crosses were later destroyed by the Soviets but have since been rebuilt by the sculptor Henrikas Silgalis.

30 minutes

Gediminas Castle Tower

Though most of Gediminas’ Castle no longer remains, a tower from the Upper Castle is still standing. Originally built in the 1400s, the Upper Castle is one of Lithuania’s most famous historical landmarks. A walk up the hill to take a closer look at this brick structure provides stunning views of Vilnius’ historic old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

30 minutes

Uzupis (Pass By)

Formerly one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Vilnius, home to prostitutes and drug addicts, Uzupis was revitalized in the 1990s when bohemians and artists moved in. Now when travelers pay a visit to Uzupis, they’ll be treated to colorful street art, small art shops, cute cafes, and tasty restaurants.

Baltic Souvenir Pilies (Pass By)

This main, cobblestone thoroughfare leads to Gediminas’ Castle. With examples of some of the best architecture in Vilnius lining the street and cafe seating spilling out over the sidewalks, Pilies Street is the perfect place to people watch over a cappuccino. One of the best souvenir shops in Vilnius, Aukso Avis, is also located on Pilies Street.

Vilnius Cathedral Square (Pass By)

Vilnius Cathedral and its neighboring Bell Tower and Square are symbolic of Vilnius. Located near Gediminas’ Castle and the Hill of Three Crosses, Vilnius Cathedral is worth a visit to see the beautiful architecture and interior decor of the building.